Vision problems require immediate care, so routine eye examinations are essential for early detection, says Dr. David Maberley, associate professor of ophthalmology at the University of British Columbia.

“Canadians need to be aware of potential problems,” he says, “and that they become more common as people age.”

But widespread awareness is lacking. A recent survey commissioned by the Canadian National Institute for the Blind found 80% of Canadians are unaware that age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in people over age 50. AMD causes damage to the macula, the part of the retina that allows us to see details such as facial features. Risk factors include age, family history, smoking, and diets high in fats and low in fresh vegetables. Treatment can slow the degenerative process.

Other common age-related vision problems are:

> Glaucoma. The second most common cause of vision loss in people over 50, glaucoma involves damage to the optic nerve, caused by pressure from excess fluid. Chronic open-angle glaucoma, the most common form, usually begins with no symptoms but can lead to complete vision loss. Prevention includes avoiding excess fluids (more than eight glasses a day), avoiding tight collars and neckties, and con-sult-ing an eye doctor before beginning weight-training programs.

>  Diabetic retinopathy.   More than 1.5 million Canadians suffer from diabetes. About two-thirds of diabetics have developed diabetic retinopathy caused by elevated glucose levels damaging blood vessels in the eyes. The condition can result in blindness, but can be detected in routine eye examinations and treated.

>  Cataracts.   These develop within the eye lenses and block light from the retina, interfering with vision. Cataracts can be detected in routine eye examinations and can easily be removed surgically.

 — ROSEMARY MCCRACKEN